PCSO Conducting Double Homicide Investigation

The store had closed for the evening, the clerk was inside andtwo store employees were outside near the marquee, changingthe sign information.

At approximately 9:00 pm a black male, described as having astocky build, and wearing dark clothing, and some sort of darkhead covering, approached the locked door and shook the door.

The clerk, Prakashkumar Patel, DOB 2/20/1973, told the suspect the store was closed, he then sawthe suspect pull a handgun from his waistband. The clerk hid under the counter and then heard agunshot. He dialed 9-1-1, and activated the store alarm. He then heard two more shots.After fatally shooting the two store employees outside, the suspect fled the area in an unknown direction.The deceased have tentatively identified as Pravinkumar Chimanbha Patel, and DashrathPatel. The only address currently available is 202 Ronaldale Street, Haines City.Prarvinkumar was visiting from New Jersey and had only been in the area for two days. Pashrathhad been in the area for 10 months. Detectives have been advised that neither have family in theUnited States.

Sheriff Grady Judd encourages anyone with information to come forward. "Anyone who hears ofsomeone bragging about committing a double murder during the robbery attempt is asked to pleasenotify the PCSO immediately. It is painfully evident that two store employees were shot and killed ina senseless manner. We must find this murderer as soon as possible," said Sheriff Judd.

Anyone with information about this investigation is urged to contact the PCSO immediately at863.533.0344. Tips can be made anonymously at 1-800-226-TIPS.